RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Virginia is the latest state to detect a respiratory illness caused by an uncommon virus similar to the germ that causes the common cold.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed that Virginia is among 16 states where the infection enterovirus 68 has been confirmed.
State public health officials say seven of 10 children have tested positive for the virus.
Dr. Laurie Forlana is the state epidemiologist. She said Wednesday all seven children are within Richmond and the surrounding region.
Forlano said the median age of the children is 6.
The suspected germ is an uncommon strain of a very common family of viruses that typically hit from summertime through autumn. The virus can cause including runny noses, coughing and wheezing.
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